Getting help with a residence-permit application in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, anyone may assist an applicant or represent them with written authorisation (Awb art. 2:1). IND decides on residence permits. You attend your own biometrics appointment. Appeals and objections need a lawyer.
Who may help you
The General Administrative Law Act lets anyone be assisted, or represented by an authorised person (gemachtigde), in dealings with a public authority (Awb art. 2:1 (opens in a new tab)). The authority may ask for a written authorisation (machtiging).
What you always do yourself
- Attend your biometrics appointment in person
- Make sure everything in your application is true and complete
When you need a lawyer
Objections (bezwaar), appeals, asylum and contested cases need a lawyer.
How we can help
We are preparing a practical assistance service for applications in the Netherlands. Until it launches, ask us a question and we will point you to the right official page.
Our service
Questions about your case
This guide is free to use. Ask us about anything specific to your situation, and we'll point you to the right next step.
Independent help with the official process. You can also apply to the authority yourself; its fees are paid to it, separately from ours. How we work
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